RNLI Longhope Lifeboat advise BBC on dangers of Pentland Firth

The BBC is in the process of creating a three part series about prehistoric Orkney with reference to it's archaeology, environment and wildlife.

Part of this project will involve the reconstruction of a Neolithic boat and eventually it is planned to row this prehistoric boat across the Pentland Firth. To prepare for this journey the BBC joined Longhope lifeboat to discuss with the lifeboat crew members the tidal currents and seafaring challenges that the crew of the reconstructed boat may have to deal with.

Lifeboat Coxswain, Kevin Kirkpatrick and Deputy Coxswain, Angus Budge also advised them on the power of the water, speed of the tides, particular aspects of different currents and the pros and cons of various routes to take, in order to reach Scotland.

This is a serious and possibly dangerous venture which the RNLI does not endorse. However Longhope lifeboat crew members offered advice on how to stay safe and what to do if they get into trouble and above all to Respect the Water.

It was great to meet the film crew, Jamie and Tom and the awesome presenter Shini Somara and we wish them a safe and successful crossing in their reconstructed Neolithic boat. Rest assured Longhope lifeboat and the volunteer crew are on standby at any time, day or night.

RNLI media contacts

Mary Harris, Lifeboat Press Officer, 07709 692811, [email protected]

Henry Weaver, RNLI Press Officer for Scotland, 01738 642986, 07771 943026, [email protected]

Richard Smith, RNLI Public Relations Manager for Scotland, 01738 642956, 07786 668903, [email protected]

RNLI Press Office, 01202 336789

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The RNLI charity saves lives at sea. Its volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service around the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland coasts. The RNLI operates 238 lifeboat stations in the UK and Ireland and more than 240 lifeguard units on beaches around the UK and Channel Islands. The RNLI is independent of Coastguard and government and depends on voluntary donations and legacies to maintain its rescue service. Since the RNLI was founded in 1824, its lifeboat crews and lifeguards have saved over 146,000 lives.

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